Germany Raises Concerns Over Death Sentence of National in Belarus

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is concerned about the death sentence handed to German national Rico Krieger in Belarus. Krieger faces terrorism charges and has pleaded for mercy from Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. Germany's foreign ministry and the local consulate are involved, advocating against the death penalty.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his concern regarding the case of a German national sentenced to death in Belarus, as confirmed by a government spokesperson on Friday. Last week, Germany's foreign ministry revealed that the German national, identified by Belarusian human rights group Viasna as Rico Krieger, faced charges related to terrorism and mercenary activity.

During a regular press conference, the government spokesperson emphasized, "Like the entire federal government, he (Scholz) is concerned about these events." Krieger has self-identified as an emergency services worker.

According to Russia's Tass news agency, which cited footage from the Belarus-1 state TV channel, Krieger has pleaded for forgiveness from Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko. Krieger claims that Ukraine's SBU security service directed him to photograph military sites in Belarus and place an explosive backpack on train tracks. Fortunately, the explosion caused no injuries.

In a desperate plea, Krieger said, "I truly hope that President Lukashenko will forgive and pardon me." Germany's foreign office spokesperson in Berlin confirmed that the local consulate is in contact with Krieger.

The spokesperson criticized the Belarusian practice of broadcasting videos of detainees, labeling it a violation of dignity, and reiterated Germany's stance against the death penalty in all situations.

(With inputs from agencies.)